Works of the flesh are like an ‘occupation’ that looks attractive to the employee, but the wages paid for it is death. Many years ago, I was engaged in various forms of works of the flesh.

I felt on top of the world when I engaged myself in the works of the flesh. But, I will never forget the night when devil decided to pay me the wages for the works of the flesh I did from my childhood. It was a deadly night, but the grace of Jesus saved me. And the Lord gave me a second chance.

Works of the flesh are also fruits of the flesh, which originated from the feast of the forbidden fruit in the Garden of Eden. Though, it appeared attractive to the first parent, but the aftertaste was bitter.

It is important for us to check-balance ourselves all the time to make sure that the works of the flesh has no input in our lives. First Corinthians chapter 10 verse 12 says: “Therefore let anyone who thinks he stands [who feels sure that he has a steadfast mind and is standing firm], take heed lest he fall [into sin].” (AMP)

Some works of the flesh include;

1. 1. Cursing: Jesus says in Matthew chapter 5 verse 22: “…But whoever says, ‘You fool!’ shall be in danger of hell fire.”
   2. Divorce and Remarriage: Jesus says in Matthew chapter 5 verse 31 and 32: “…and whoever marries a woman who is divorced commits adultery.”
   3. Fornication: All forms of illicit sexual relationships such as; unmarried partners, homosexual, etc.
   4. Adultery: Extramarital sexual affair.
   5. Uncleanliness: Actions that make the heart impure such as watching porn, reading playboy, harmful thoughts and lustful desires.
   6. Lewdness: Immoral lifestyles, provocative wears and corrupt behavior.
   7. Idolatry: Worshiping images or man, giving respect to worldly things at the expense of God, the Creator.
   8. Sorcery: Patronizing false Prophets for magical handkerchief, oil, water and soap.
   9. Hatred: Strong dislike for a human being. Unforgiving! Jesus says in Matthew chapter 6 verse 14: “But I say, love your enemies!”
   10. Jealousy: Envy towards another person’s possessions.
   11. Anger: Intense fury without love.
   12. Selfish Ambition: Cheating another person or the government.
   13. Heresies: Cooked-up ungodly ideologies for cheap popularity and establishment of new denominations.
   14. Murder: Taking another person’s life without fair consideration.
   15. Drunkenness: Deriving pleasure from alcohol.
   16. Revelry: Lovers of wild parties and merrymaking.
   17. Theft: Taking what belongs to another person without rightful approval.
   18. Deceit: Both ‘white and black’ lies will lead the liars to eternal heat.
   19. Pride: The habit of self-esteem; no respect for God.
   20. Jokes: Foolish talks and jesting to make people laugh is like sitting on a keg of gunpowder. Read Ephesians 5:1-7.

You can also read the following passages for more understanding: Mark 7:21-23, Romans 1:29-31, Galatians 5:19-21, and Colossians 3:5-8.

Characteristics of Works of the Flesh

1. Easy to do: For instance; the brain might find it difficult to solve a simple mathematics, but the thoughtful brain is always fast to disseminate lies to the tongue.
2. Works of the flesh is popular: They are widely acceptable in our society and by the government. For instance; the government approves legalized adultery (divorce and remarriage), abortion, homosexual etc. Pregnancy before marriage is not a big deal anymore…
3. Less Expensive: The works of the flesh is very cheap to do, unlike the fruits of the Spirit, which require strong determination and self-denial from worldliness.

Do not be enticed by the works of the flesh because its outcome is eternal loss of your soul. “But the cowardly, unbelieving, abominable, murderers, sexually immoral, sorcerers, idolaters, and all liars, shall have their part in the lake which burns with fire and brimstone, which is the second death.” (Revelation 21 verse 8)